At each moment the little band was augmented by a new arrival.

All these little creatures were of species which do not emigrate, but pass the winter in the shelter of the wooded dells.

There were blackbirds with yellow bills, who advanced boldly over the snow up to the very feet of the distributing fairy; robin redbreasts, nearly as tame, hopping gayly over the stones, bobbing their heads and puffing out their red breasts; and tomtits, prudently watching awhile from the tops of neighboring trees, then suddenly taking flight, and with quick, sharp cries, seizing the grain on the wing.

It was charming to see all these little hungry creatures career around Reine's head, with a joyous fluttering of wings.

When the supply was exhausted, the young girl shook her apron, turned around, and recognized Julien.
"Were you there, Monsieur de Buxieres ?" she exclaimed; "come inside the courtyard! Don't be afraid; they have finished their meal.